he very best in food and hospitality across Connaught were celebrated on Tuesday, March 31st at the Irish Restaurant Awards Connaught Regional Final 2026, held at Knockranny House Hotel. The event marked the final regional ceremony in this year’s prestigious awards programme, where county winners from across the province were revealed.
Over 600 guests gathered to celebrate the outstanding achievements of restaurants, cafés, and hospitality businesses operating throughout Connaught. The event showcased the quality, resilience, and innovation that continue to define the region’s thriving hospitality sector.
Now in its 17th year, the Irish Restaurant Awards attracted over 150,000 public nominations, submitted via The Irish Times, the official media partner.
Addressing attendees, Seán Collender, President of the Restaurants Association of Ireland, said:
“Connaught continues to play a vital role in Ireland’s food story, with restaurants and hospitality businesses at the heart of communities across the region. Despite ongoing cost pressures, the standard of food, service and innovation on display remains exceptionally high. These awards are a testament to the resilience and dedication of those working across the sector.
Hospitality is not just about dining, it is about experience, employment and community. The strength of this sector is critical to local economies and to Ireland’s wider tourism offering. Celebrating the excellence in Connaught highlights the importance of supporting these businesses into the future. Congratulations to all of tonight’s nominees and winners.”
Also speaking following the awards, Mairéad Melody, Manager of Mayo North Tourism, said:
“It’s fantastic to see so many North Mayo businesses recognised on such a significant stage. These awards highlight not only the exceptional quality of food and hospitality in our region, but also the passion, creativity and hard work of the people behind it. Our local businesses continue to deliver authentic, memorable experiences for visitors and locals alike, and it’s wonderful to see them celebrated at Connaught level.”
Local Winners Flying the Flag for North Mayo
Ballina and its neighbouring towns proudly brought home a number of prestigious awards on the night, further cementing the region’s reputation as a leading food destination along the Wild Atlantic Way.
The Cot & Cobble, Ballina
The Cot and Cobble is a hugely popular spot with locals and tourists alike, ideally situated on Clare Street along the banks of the River Moy. A special congratulations to Jason Moyles, who received the Employee Excellence Award (Mayo) for his outstanding service and dedication.
Daniels Restaurant, Ballina
Winner of Best Newcomer, At Daniels Restaurant, contemporary flavours on Ireland’s wild west coast. Locally sourced, expertly crafted. Our food celebrates the best of Mayo’s land and sea. Whether you’re here for a pint, a plate, or a place to stay, we do things simply, and we do them well.
Poacher Restaurant, Ballina
Chef Yvonne Kathrein was honoured as the restaurant took home the title: Best Contemporary Irish Cuisine, a testament to her incredible talent and passion for local, seasonal cuisine.
FOXFORD
The ever-popular FOXFORD was recognised as Innovator of the Year, proving once again that tradition and creativity can go hand-in-hand when it comes to putting Foxford on the map. FOXFORD Cafe enjoys freshly prepared dishes, artisanal coffee, and delectable pastries. Enjoy a cozy ambiance perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a sweet treat.
Baker51, Ballina
The proud winners of Best Café #Mayo is Baker 51. Baker51 is a modern café and bakery in the centre of Ballina – also owned by O’Hara’s of Foxford, was founded in 1951. They serve breakfast, lunch, and baked goods made fresh, using quality local ingredients.
Looking Ahead
Once all regional finals conclude, both Regional and All-Ireland winners will be revealed at the All-Ireland Awards Gala Dinner on Monday, May 18th at the Clayton Hotel Burlington Road, Dublin. County winners from Connaught are now invited to secure tickets for the national ceremony.
These awards are not only a celebration of individual excellence but also a reflection of the vibrant and growing food and hospitality scene in North Mayo. With such a strong showing at the Connaught Regional Final, the region now looks ahead with great anticipation to the national stage.
Congratulations again to all the winners — continuing to raise the bar for Ballina, North Mayo, and beyond.
Congratulations again to all the winners, keep raising the bar for Ballina and beyond!
Other Mayo Winners Included
In addition to the strong showing from North Mayo, a number of outstanding businesses from across the county were also recognised on the night, further highlighting the depth, quality and innovation within Mayo’s food and hospitality sector:
- Best Restaurant (Mayo): An Port Mór Restaurant
- Best Chef (Mayo): Shteryo Yurukov, Sage Restaurant
- Best Restaurant Manager (Mayo): John Nevin, Nevin’s Newfield Inn
- Best Hotel & Guesthouse Restaurant (Mayo): The Lodge at Ashford Castle
- Employee Excellence (Mayo): Jason Moyles, The Cot & Cobble
- Best Use of Social Media (Mayo): Infused Cocktail & Wine Bar
- Best Casual Dining (Mayo): Friends Bistro
- Best World Cuisine (Mayo): La Casa
- Best Gastro Pub (Mayo): JJ O’Malleys
- Best Contemporary Irish Cuisine (Mayo): Poacher Restaurant
- Best Newcomer (Mayo): Daniel’s Kitchen & Bar
- Pub of the Year (Mayo): McDonnells Bar & Undertakers
- Best Wine Experience (Mayo): George V Dining Room at Ashford Castle
- Best Customer Service (Mayo): Arno’s Bistrot
- Best Café (Mayo): Baker 51
- Best Sustainable Practices (Mayo): The Creel, Castlebar
- Innovator of the Year (Mayo): Foxford Café
- Local Food Hero (Mayo): Cillian Ó Móráin & Bart Adons, Mescan Brewery
Photo Credit: Paul Sherwood – https://sherwood.ie/